SAN FRANCISCO – Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday that just as mutual respect is a basic code of behavior for individuals, it is fundamental for China-US relations.
“The United States is unique in its history, culture and geographical position, which have shaped its distinct development path and social system. We fully respect all this," Xi said at the welcome dinner by friendly organizations in the United States.
The path of socialism with Chinese characteristics has been found under the guidance of the theory of scientific socialism, and is rooted in the tradition of the Chinese civilization with an uninterrupted history of more than 5,000 years, he said.
"We are proud of our choice, just as you are proud of yours. Our paths are different, but both are the choice by our peoples, and both lead to the realization of the common values of humanity. They should be both respected," Xi said.
Win-win cooperation is the trend of the times, and it is also an inherent property of China-US relations, he said.
"China is pursuing high-quality development, and the United States is revitalizing its economy. There is plenty of room for our cooperation, and we are fully able to help each other succeed and achieve win-win outcomes," said the Chinese leader.
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He arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday for a summit with US President Joe Biden, and to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting.
‘Not primary competitor’
Beijing is ready to be a partner and friend of Washington, urging the United States not to see China as its primary competitor, Xi said.
"The fundamental principles that we follow in handling China-US relations are mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.”
China does not seek spheres of influence, and will not fight a cold war or a hot war with anyone.
Xi Jinping, President, China
To steer the giant ship of China-US relations clear of hidden rocks and shoals, one fundamental and overarching question needs to be answered: "Are we adversaries, or partners?" he asked.
"The logic is if one sees the other side as a primary competitor, the most consequential geopolitical challenge and a pacing threat, it will only lead to misinformed policy-making, misguided actions, and unwanted results," he added.
Win-win cooperation is an inherent property of China-US relations, Xi stressed.
The Chinese leader arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday for a summit with US President Joe Biden, and to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting.
Role of people in Sino-US ties
Underscoring the role of people in Sino-US relations, he said, “The foundation of China-US relations was laid by our peoples."
"We should build more bridges and pave more roads for people-to-people interactions. We must not erect barriers or create a chilling effect," said the Chinese leader.
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“The door of China-US relations was opened by our peoples,” he said, adding that the stories of China-US relations are written by people of the two countries and that "the future of China-US relations will be created by our peoples."
China is ready to invite 50,000 young Americans to China on exchange and study programs in the next five years to increase exchanges between the two peoples, especially between the youth.
The Chinese leader arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday for a summit with US President Joe Biden, and to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting.
‘Friendship cannot be derailed’
President Xi said he was convinced the door of China-US relations cannot be shut again once opened, and the cause of China-US friendship cannot be derailed halfway once started.
‘No cold or hot war’
China will not fight a cold war or a hot war with anyone, he said.
“Whatever stage of development it may reach, China will never pursue hegemony or expansion, and will never impose its will on others.”
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“China does not seek spheres of influence, and will not fight a cold war or a hot war with anyone,” said the Chinese president.
Peaceful coexistence
Xi said peaceful coexistence is a basic norm for international relations, and is even more of a baseline that China and the US should hold on to as two major countries.
"China never bets against the United States, and never interferes in its internal affairs. China has no intention to challenge the United States or to unseat it," he said.
